Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is made primarily from corn. It is named after Bourbon County, Kentucky, where it was first produced in the 18th century. However, bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States, as long as it adheres to certain guidelines set forth by the government.
To be considered bourbon, the whiskey must be made from a mash bill (the recipe of grains used) that is at least 51% corn. The remaining grains can include barley, wheat, and rye. The mash is then fermented and distilled before being aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years. This aging process is what gives bourbon its distinct color and flavor.
One of the unique characteristics of bourbon is that it must be aged in new barrels, unlike other types of whiskey such as scotch which can be aged in used barrels. The charring of the barrel is what gives bourbon its distinct caramel, vanilla and woody
Bourbon can range in alcohol content from 40% to 60%, with the most common being around 40-50%. Some bourbons, known as cask strength or barrel proof bourbons, are bottled at higher alcohol content levels than the standard 40-50%. These bourbons are often considered to be more flavorful and complex.
While bourbon is often associated with Kentucky, it can be produced anywhere in the United States. Some states, such as Tennessee and Texas, have their own distinct styles of bourbon. However, Kentucky remains the largest producer of bourbon in the world.
Bourbon is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be sipped neat, on the rocks, or mixed in cocktails. It can also be paired with food, with the flavors of bourbon complementing a range of dishes from spicy barbecue to sweet desserts.
In conclusion, bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is made from a mash bill of at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of 2 years. It is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, paired with different foods, and produced in different states of the USA, but mostly known for coming from Kentucky.